He Huia Kaimanawa 2009

Finalists for 2009 Maori Language Awards announced

The finalists for the 2009 Maori Language Awards were announced today.  In one of the busiest Maori language promotion years yet, 30 finalists in nine categories have been identified.  A further four entrants have been noted by the judges as highly commended, and there will be a special presentation of two new awards, Taku Toa Takimano and Te Tira Aumangea for an individual and a group who have made outstanding and long-term contributions to the regeneration of te reo Maori.

Huhana Rokx, Chief Executive of Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Maori (The Maori Language Commission) says, “Congratulations to all finalists, particularly for their efforts and commitment to te reo Maori.  Everyone, finalists, entrants and those who participated and support the Maori language are to be congratulated.  The Maori language has had unprecedented coverage in the media capturing much of the activity throughout the nation.”

The finalists by category for the 2009 Maori Language Awards are: Print Media – Fairfax Media NiE, Ngai Tauira, Victoria University, Gisborne Herald; Radio – Kotuku Rerenga Tahi Ltd, Radio NZ, Moana Communications; Television – Cinco Cine, TVNZ, TVNZ – Praise Be; Community – Raukawa Trust Board, Orakei Marae, Counties Manukau Sport, Te Whare Ahorangi; Local Body Organisations – Whakatane District Council, Auckland Regional Council,Wellington City Council; Business – Te Puia, Cinco Cine, Haemata Ltd; Schools – Nga Iwi Primary School, Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o te Hiringa, Sir Keith Park Special School, Starship Children’s Health; Maori Language Week - Maori Television, Ngai Tauira, Victoria University, TVNZ, CPIT Te Puna Wanaka; Tertiary Institutions – The University of Auckland, Massey University,Ngai Tauira, Victoria University, AUT University.

Winners of the nine categories, the highly commended entrants and the winners of the new awards will be announced Friday afternoon, 16^th October at the Maori Language Awards which will be the final part of He Huia Kaimanawa – The Maori Language Expo taking place at Te Rauparaha Arena and Event Centre in Porirua.

The Supreme Award, Te Tohu Huia Kaimanawa, will also be announced at the event on Friday.

For more information regarding He Huia Kaimanawa, or the Maori Language Awards, please contact Betty Hauraki on 04 471 6042 or betty@tetaurawhiri.govt.nz.  All media enquiries should be directed to Debra Jensen.

Debra Jensen
027 231 4297
debra@tetaurawhiri.govt.nz